ATLANTA - s4story -- Liberia Economic Development Initiative (LEDI), a U.S.-based international non-profit organization, hosted its milestone 11th Annual International Life Changers Awards & Fundraising Gala at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway Hotel. The black-tie event convened over 250 civic leaders, corporate executives, philanthropists, and community advocates dedicated to breaking the cycle of systemic poverty through education, literacy, and economic development.

Centered on the theme "We Are The Light," the gala highlighted LEDI's dual commitment to empowering communities both locally in the United States and internationally. While the foundation of LEDI's international focus remains the construction of Liberia's landmark $3.5M to $5M state-of-the-art public library and technology center, a facility designed to serve over 200,000 children, students, and professionals annually, LEDI's broader mission actively addresses the global literacy crisis, youth mentorship, and workforce readiness across borders.

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The evening was anchored by Honorary Co-Chairs Ambassador Andrew J. Young, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and civil rights icon, alongside Virginia W. Harris, National President of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Acclaimed television journalist Portia Bruner, host of Portia on FOX 5 Atlanta, served as Mistress of Ceremonies.

LEDI's highest honor, the International Life Changers Award, was presented to:

• Charletta Wilson Jacks, 32nd International President & CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® — Recognized for her executive leadership of nearly 400,000 members worldwide and over two decades of public service in the City of Atlanta.
• Donna W. Hyland, Former President & CEO of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta — Honored for her legacy of expanding pediatric healthcare access, clinical research, and community wellness.
• Gerald "Gee-Bee" Barclay, Acclaimed Filmmaker & Documentarian — Honored for his award-winning career capturing vital cultural, historical, and community narratives globally.
• Sean "The Science Kid" Atitsogbe, 12-Year-Old STEM Educator & Mensa Member — Named the youngest honoree in LEDI history for inspiring over two million youth globally and championing early childhood literacy and scientific discovery.

"Our 2026 honorees exemplify how dedicated leadership transforms lives across communities," said Rufus N. Darkortey, LEDI Co-Founder & President. "Whether advancing pediatric health in Georgia, elevating global service organizations, or providing modern learning tools to youth in West Africa, our shared work proves that investing in people yields generational returns."

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"While we celebrated an extraordinary evening honoring global leaders, our mission requires us to push forward until our $150,000 goal is fully realized," said Joan Curran Darkortey, LEDI Co-Founder & CEO. "Literacy and economic opportunity know no geographic boundaries. A monthly gift of $25, less than a dollar a day, directly funds books and educational programming for youth who currently lack access to modern learning centers."

Gala attendees and sponsors generated over $70,000 toward the event's $150,000 fundraising goal. LEDI is now calling on corporate partners, civic organizations, and community members to help bridge the remaining balance.

To Support LEDI's Ongoing Campaign:

Give a recurring gift of $25/month or more, make a one-time tax-deductible donation at www.ledinow.org, and help spread the word using #WeAreTheLight and #LEDILiberia.